Paddle Board BUI: Can You Get a DUI While on a SUP?
Boating under the influence laws apply to many paddle boarders, and yes — you can get a BUI on a SUP. This guide breaks down state limits, penalties, safety risks, and why mixing alcohol with paddle boarding is more dangerous than most people realize.
Can you get a BUI on a paddle board? In most states, yes.
While laws vary, many states classify SUPs as vessels, meaning boating-under-the-influence rules apply.
BAC limits often match DUI laws, and penalties can include fines, jail time, or even losing your driver’s license.
Beyond legal consequences, alcohol greatly increases the risks associated with paddle boarding by impairing balance, judgment, vision, hydration, and reaction times.
Enforcement can come from police, park rangers, or marine patrols, so don't assume you're off the radar on a quiet lake or river.
The safest approach is simple: paddle first, celebrate later.
This article explains the legal landscape, safety concerns, and smarter ways to enjoy the water responsibly.
Before we get started: I am not a lawyer. I’m not your lawyer. This isn’t legal advice. It’s simply the result of one guy trying to Google whether he could enjoy a beer while paddleboarding (spoiler: he could not). If you need actual legal advice, talk to a real attorney.
Can You Get a BUI on a Paddle Board?
Yes — in most states, you can get a BUI/BWI (Boating Under the Influence) while operating a stand-up paddle board.
Nearly every state treats SUPs as “vessels” when they're used outside designated swim or surf zones. That means you can be charged with a BUI for being under the influence of alcohol or drugs while paddling.
BAC limits by state:
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48 states: 0.08 BAC
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Utah: 0.05 BAC
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North Dakota: 0.10 BAC
These numbers change, and interpretations vary, so always check your local regulations — especially if you cross state lines with your paddle board.
And it’s not just alcohol: any impairing substance (legal or not) can qualify for a BUI if it affects your ability to paddle safely.
Some states exempt non-motorized craft, but enforcement varies wildly, and SUPs often fall into gray areas. Bottom line: don’t assume you’re exempt.
Gray Area Alert: Open Container Laws for Paddle Boards
Open container rules on the water are not the same as open container rules in cars.
Some states allow open alcohol containers on boats as long as the operator isn’t actively drinking.
Others? Not so forgiving.
And if your SUP has a trolling motor attached — congratulations, you’re legally a boat.
What Are the Penalties for a BUI?
A BUI/BWI penalty can resemble a DUI penalty, including:
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Fines
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Mandatory safety courses
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Possible jail time
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Suspension of your driver’s license
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Confiscation of your vessel
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Higher insurance premiums
And yes, losing your driver’s license for something that happened on a paddle board is possible in several states.
Who Can Cite You?
It is NOT just police:
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State troopers
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Local police
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Sheriff’s marine units
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Coast Guard
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Park rangers
If you’re on popular lakes, reservoirs, or state parks — assume enforcement is nearby.
Is Drinking While Paddle Boarding Dangerous?
Absolutely.
Alcohol affects everything you need to stay safe on a SUP:
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Balance
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Judgment
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Vision
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Reaction time
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Temperature regulation
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Hydration levels
Falling off your board is one thing; falling off after three drinks is another.
Cold water + alcohol = a dangerous combination that raises the risk of drowning, hypothermia, and disorientation.
Even if you’re not paddling (just sitting or riding along), the risks remain.
Wear a life jacket. Stay with sober paddlers. Hydrate like you mean it.
The Myth of “Sobering Up”
Cold showers, coffee, and exercise might make you feel more alert, but they do not reduce your BAC. Only time can do that.
If you want to drink, do the responsible thing:
paddle first, celebrate later.
Conclusion
Paddle boarding and alcohol simply don’t mix — legally or safely. While the exact laws vary, a BUI on a SUP can cost you money, time, and even your driver’s license. More importantly, impaired paddling dramatically increases your risk of injury or drowning.
If you want fun things to do on your paddle board without drinking, explore our other blog posts or check out Glide’s lineup of high-performance inflatable paddle boards designed for every adventure.
Ken Driscoll
Former whitewater kayaker and kayak designer. Founder of Glide.
FAQs About Paddle Board BUI (Boating Under the Influence)
Can you really get a BUI on a paddle board?
Yes. In most states, a paddle board is legally treated as a vessel—meaning you can receive a paddle board BUI if you're operating it while impaired. The majority of states use the same BAC limit as driving a car (0.08), but some states differ.
Do paddle board BUI laws apply to inflatable SUPs too?
Absolutely. The law does not distinguish between inflatable paddle boards and hard boards. If it floats and you can operate it on water, it can fall under boating-under-the-influence laws.
Are there any states where paddle boards are exempt from BUI laws?
A handful of states have exceptions for non-motorized craft, but the rules vary widely and are often vague. Because enforcement differs by jurisdiction, it's safest to assume you can get a BUI on a paddle board everywhere.
What is the penalty for a paddle board BUI?
Penalties can include:
Fines
Jail time
Suspension of your driver’s license
Mandatory substance education programs
Possible probation
Penalties are often similar to driving DUIs.
Can a park ranger give me a paddle board BUI citation?
Yes. Law enforcement and park rangers have authority to issue a paddle board BUI on many waterways—lakes, reservoirs, coastal areas, and national parks.
Can I have a drink on my paddle board if I’m not “operating” it?
It depends. Some states allow open containers on boats but prohibit operating under the influence. Others ban open containers altogether. Many states treat sitting on a paddle board with a paddle nearby as “in control of a vessel.”
What about drinking onshore and then paddle boarding later?
If your BAC is still above the legal limit, you may still qualify for a paddle board BUI—even hours after your last drink. Only time reduces your BAC; caffeine, cold water, and exercise do not speed up sobriety.
Is drinking on a paddle board actually dangerous?
Yes, very. Alcohol reduces:
Balance
Coordination
Reaction time
Judgment
This increases your risk of:
Falling off your board
Getting separated from your SUP
Drowning
Hypothermia
Collisions with other vessels
Can passengers on a paddle board drink even if the operator is sober?
Some states allow passengers to drink on vessels, and some don’t. Because paddle boards are often treated like kayaks or canoes, rules vary dramatically.
How can I avoid getting a paddle board BUI?
The simplest approach:
Don’t drink until your paddling session is finished.
Paddle with sober friends.
Know your state’s boating regulations.
Wear a PFD and leash.
Staying sober on the water keeps you safe, legal, and in control.
